Course Description Handbook 2014-2015 Rev.2 | Page 32

English II This course emphasizes continuing development of oral language and composition skills. Included within the study are the identification of literary themes and forms, use of effective reading strategies, and development of speaking/listening skills. Students write for varied audiences and purposes and work to apply effective ideas, voice, word choice, fluency, organization, and conventions in their writing. Reading selections with increased text complexity for this level include poetry, drama, fiction, literary nonfiction, and informational text. English III This course presents advanced work in composition and reading. Students’ will practice both reading and writing as a process. The course provides an overview of American literature from the Colonial Period to the Contemporary Period, allowing students to examine samples of traditional, classic, and multi-ethnic selections that represent this country’s cultural diversity. Selections include poetry, drama, fiction, literary nonfiction, and informational texts. As students read, they are asked to focus on comprehension, analysis, and evaluation. As they write for varied audiences and purposes, students work to develop their ideas and apply effective voice, word choice, fluency, logical organization of material, and appropriate conventions of language. In addition to process pieces, students produce in-class, timed writings. The skills of listening/speaking and the enhancement of media literacy are addressed in the fabric of the course. Military Literature (New Course) This course contains a survey of novels, novellas, poetry, and nonfiction pieces, each taking place within, and focusing upon, most large military interventions, crises, conflicts, and wars. The chronological timeline of this course runs from the early American wars to the current War on Terror (Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom). Students will be provided with a knowledgeable environment, and they will experience a well-rounded, in-depth grouping of materials based upon reading, writing, and discussion, all in regard to literature of a historical and militaristic significance. Newspaper (New Course) (Cum Laude Recognition) This course designed for students interested in newspaper process and developing their skills as a writer. The course explores the contemporary media and the ethical responsibility issues inherent in the press today. Students will learn the fundamentals of news, feature, editorial and sports writing. Copy reading, news style and editing will be stressed. Students will create numerous original stories using varied structures and writing techniques. Students will also learn to create computer generated layouts and graphics. Students will develop and publish a community-wide newspaper. Professional Communication This course is designed to provide opportunities for students to understand and develop effective interpersonal communication skills for the 21st Century. Professional Communications blends written, oral, and graphic communication in a career-based, business environment. Students will prepare, present, and evaluate a variety of multi-media presentations that are appropriate for the professional setting. 32 Table of Contents